The Bold Letter That Changed Barbara Corcoran’s Life (and Why You Need to Write Yours)
The Bold Letter That Got Barbara Corcoran on Shark Tank
Sometimes, the difference between no and yes is simply how hard you knock.
Barbara Corcoran — business mogul, real estate queen, and now beloved Shark on Shark Tank — wasn’t the first choice.
In fact, when the producers of the show originally made their selection, they told her they had picked another woman for the seat.
So what did she do?
She didn’t apologize.
She didn’t disappear.
She wrote a bold, unapologetic letter explaining exactly why she deserved to be there.
That email got her on the show.
That moment changed her life.
And it started with one BOSS MOVE.
Here’s the exact letter Barbara sent — a masterclass in self-worth, resilience, and going after what you want:
Subject: Still Swimming
Mark,
I understand you’ve asked another girl to dance instead of me. Although I appreciate being reserved as a fall-back, I’m much more accustomed to coming in first.
I think you should consider inviting both of us to LA for your try outs. Here are my reasons why:
1. I do my best when my back’s against the wall. I love the heat of competition — it brings out my best. I’ve had my biggest wins following rejection. A nun in 5th grade once told me I’d always be stupid because I couldn’t read. The New York old boys’ network tried to shut me out of real estate until I became their largest competitor. Donald Trump told me I’d never see my $4M commission — I proved him wrong. My ex left me saying, “You’ll never succeed without me.” I consider your rejection a lucky charm.
2. If you have both ladies in LA, you can test the chemistry. In building teams, I’ve learned that personality combinations matter more than individual talent. Try us both. Drop a man if you have to — I’m just as smart and mean as the next guy.
3. I’ve always known the shark role is a perfect fit for me. Everything I’ve done in business and television has prepared me for this. My style is different. I’ve watched 37 episodes of Dragon’s Den, and I know I could rival the best sharks for smarts and charisma. Your audience would fall in love with me.
The reputation you have in your field is equal to the reputation I have in mine. I know you’re the best at what you do, and I trust you’ll make the right decision.
I’ve booked my flight for the 6th and hope to be on that plane.
Thanks,
Barbara
I mean… 🔥🔥🔥
How’s that for going after what you want?
This is more than just a savvy email — this is the definition of a Boss Move.
Barbara wasn’t chosen — so she chose herself.
She didn’t ask for permission — she showed why she belonged.
And seventeen years later, she’s still sitting in that seat.
💡 Here’s Your Takeaway:
You don’t need to wait to be picked.
You don’t need to hope someone notices your potential.
You can press send.
You can make the call.
You can write the letter, ask the question, start the thing.
“I’ve had all my big successes on the heels of rejection… I consider your rejection a lucky charm.”
How Boudoir Can Help You Make Your Own Boss Moves
Just like Barbara Corcoran’s bold letter changed her life, sometimes the key to stepping into your own power starts with how you see yourself—and how fiercely you own it. Boudoir photography isn’t just about beautiful photos; it’s an experience designed to help you connect with your inner strength, confidence, and unapologetic self-worth.
When you stand in front of the camera, fully embraced and celebrated for exactly who you are, something shifts. You see yourself through a lens of empowerment instead of doubt. That confidence translates far beyond the shoot — into your career, your relationships, your goals, and yes, your boss moves.
Getting boudoir photos taken is a declaration: I am here. I am worthy. I am ready. It’s a radical act of self-love and permission to show up as your most authentic, bold self in the world.
Whether you’re writing your own bold letter, pitching a new idea, or simply stepping up to lead, the energy you build in that boudoir experience can become your secret weapon. It reminds you of your power, your resilience, and your capacity to knock louder and push further.
So, if you’re ready to channel that Barbara Corcoran fire inside you — start with a boudoir session that celebrates all the reasons you deserve to be seen and heard. Because your boss move starts with how fiercely you believe in yourself.